Sophie Chatel recognizes citizens as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Sophie Chatel recognizes citizens as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations

As part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Pontiac MP Sophie Chatel celebrated the contributions of the region’s citizens to the community during the pandemic. Recipients were nominated by fellow residents of the riding for the recognition.

“What moved me the most, François, is that they were recognized by their community and that is what is beautiful,” Chatel said (translated). “One of the great parts, the most beautiful parts of the Queen’s Jubilee was to start this process by asking people in the community: who impacted your community? Who was united? Who helped you get through the crises we had? And it’s to see the magnificent stories that we have received. For me, it was incredible to see how many people we have who often work in the shadows, who give and give without asking for anything in return. And there, they were recognized and it’s absolutely magnificent stories.”

Reverend Stuart Marples of New Hope Christian Fellowship Church in Shawville was one of the recipients who was presented with a Platinum Jubilee pin and certificate.

“Well, I think it’s taught us three or four things,” he said. “It’s taught us the importance of taking church beyond the walls of the building, finding ways to be active in the community, to show love, kindness and support to people who are in need. It’s taught us to take advantage of opportunities online, both in terms of streaming services and meeting through Zoom and so on. And it’s also taught us the value of unity, of looking beyond the divisiveness, which is so prevalent all around about us and finding reasons to be in unity and harmony rather than in conflict.”

It was also the official inauguration of Chatel’s new offices in the Plateau sector of the city of Gatineau, which will also serve the citizens of the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais. Chatel’s office in MRC Pontiac is located in Campbell’s Bay.

The full (French-language) interview with Chatel is available here.